This thesis uses an anthropological approach to examine the current social status of the young elderly in contemporary urban China and explores the problems these people are facing. A review of literature sets up complementary theoretical frameworks for the understanding of the interaction between changing social environment and transitional life experiences of the young elderly. Discussion of historical circumstances provides the background for transitions with reference to family structure, intergenerational relationships and family life in contemporary China. Discussion includes the role and effect of related state policies since the Communist Party came to power in 1949. Data were collected from eight case studies through personal interviews with Chinese students and their elderly parents in the United States. Other data came from several informants interviewed by the author in China. Analysis focuses on the changing financial, emotional and physical status of the elderly within the social, economic and political context of urban China. Results of the study show that the social status of the elderly has changed in the direction of favoring younger generations. Elderly people in contemporary urban China are experiencing extreme challenges and various kinds of insecurities related to role transition. The state has played a critical role in leading to this situation. / Graduation date: 1996